I have been thinking more and more about this after my neice whom is not even 1yr older then my DD (who is 9) started menstrating. She is not coping with AF and its just so sad as she is so young and immature and my SIL isn't coping either with what to do for her. She doesn't understand, doesn't want to wear a bra when she really needs to, has BO but wont use deodorant etc She is an early bloomer I guess you would say. Its made me realise that it could be my DD whom is very young for her age and how she would cope if she started menstrating. I don't think it is close for my DD as she still looks like a little girl but I know the time will come all to soon and for memory my neice didn't show any signs except for some under arm hairs. My DD has a rough knowledge on what a period is and why but what have other mothers done to prepare their DDs for this? Do you send a pad to school when it looks like your DD is maturing in that way? My mother didn't ever speak about AF to us. I learnt at school so I can't say I have a good role model to follow or even ask for advise. Should I leave the talk of when she could expect AF until she is matureing more and its obvious she will start menstrating? I started at 11 and so did her Dads sisters but I know girls are matureing more these days. I think the fact my neice is 11months older with AF scares me that is could be my daughter and I can't visualise my DD been able to cope with that.